When it comes to making things smaller for homes, no one knows better than Japan, where interior space is at a premium. Speaking of making things smaller, Panasonic has just unveiled a toilet with what it claims is the industry’s smallest depth, so a small bathroom can feel more spacious while improving seat comfort. Wait, what? Panasonic? Yes. That same Panasonic that makes cameras, mini-compo systems, and more.
Folks, this is the Panasonic Arauno L-Class Tankless Toilet. It takes up less room without expecting your backside to do the same. I appreciate that. Not every part of us is ready for miniaturisation. The clever part is the toilet shrinks without making any sacrifices.
The body measures 622 mm (24.5 inches) deep, shaving approximately 78 mm (3.1 inches) off its predecessor while increasing the seating area by 5%. Panasonic’s smallest-depth claim covers integrated warm-water washing toilets from major Japanese manufacturers, based on its July 2026 research. So, a specific category, not every object humanity has ever sat on. Panasonic’s announcement explains the comparison.
There’s also a new semi-floating version. It looks suspended but remains floor-mounted, avoiding the need for wall reinforcement. You get the floating-toilet aesthetic without asking your wall to take responsibility for lunch.
Meanwhile, the cleaning system washes the bowl with bubbles every time you flush. The stain-resistant material and minimal gaps also make cleaning easier. This is the sort of automation I can get behind. Literally, in this case.
The styling is surprisingly considered for something you generally visit with your trousers down. Alongside white, there’s Sustainable Grey, which incorporates recycled factory waste, plus coloured lid options. You may now find yourself discussing whether your toilet should have a pink lid. Home ownership takes you to unexpected places.
It’s quiet, too—a feature I never knew was a concern until today. Panasonic also claims a flushing sound of approximately 55 dB(A), compared with around 70 dB(A) for its older siphon toilet. Quieter flushing is welcome, although it cannot do anything about the video you accidentally play at full volume.
Japanese orders open on October 21, 2026, for the floor-standing model, starting at 352,000 yen. The semi-floating version follows on December 21, from 382,000 yen. Both prices exclude tax and installation. If you are interested and read Japanese, you may learn more at the official product page [JP].
A smaller toilet, a roomier seat, and less cleaning. Now, if it could persuade everyone else in the house to replace the toilet roll, we’d really be getting somewhere.
Images: Panasonic [JP].
